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Title 14. Criminal Law. Chapter 1. Criminal Code. Part V. Offenses Affecting the Public Morals. Subpart A. Offenses Affecting Sexual Immorality. 4. Crime Against Nature. § 89. Crime against nature
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part II. Corporations for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LSA-R.S. 3:2391 - 2393)
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part III. Care of Suffering Animals (LSA-R.S. 3:2431 - 2440)
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part IV. Abandoned Animals (LSA-R.S.3:2451 - 2454)
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part VII. Animal Control Agency Officers (LSA-R.S. 3:2501)
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part I. In General
§ 2361. Horses and mules which may not be sold
§ 2362. Tying or tethering a dog or cat in extreme weather conditions; penalties
§ 2363. Sale of dyed chicks, ducklings, goslings, or rabbits; requirements for maintenance; penalties
§ 2364. Louisiana Animal Control Advisory Task Force
§ 2365. Repealed by Acts 2017, No. 422, § 4
§ 2366. Louisiana Animal Shelter Registry
§§ 2367 to 2374. [Blank]
Title 14. Criminal Law. Chapter 1. Criminal Code. Part VI. Offenses Affecting The Public Generally. Subpart B. Offenses Affecting The Public Sensibility
§ 102 . Definitions; cruelty to animals
§ 102.1 . Cruelty to animals; simple and aggravated
§ 102.2 . Seizure and disposition of animals cruelly treated
§ 102.3 . Search warrant; animal cruelty offenses
§ 102.4 . Confined animals; necessary food and water
§ 102.5 . Dogfighting; training and possession of dogs for fighting
§ 102.6 . Seizure and destruction or disposition of dogs and equipment used in dogfighting
§ 102.7 . Search warrant for dogfighting offenses
§ 102.8 . Injuring or killing of a police animal
§ 102.9 . Interference with animal research; research laboratory or farm
§ 102.10 . Bear wrestling; penalty
§ 102.12 . Definitions
§ 102.13 . Hearing to determine if dog is dangerous or vicious
§ 102.14 . Unlawful ownership of dangerous dog
§ 102.15 . Unlawful ownership of a vicious dog
§ 102.16 . Seizure and destruction or disposition of dangerous or vicious dogs
§ 102.17 . Registration of dangerous dogs; fees
§ 102.18 . Seizure and disposition of dogs which cause death or inflict bodily injury
§ 102.19 . Hog and canine fighting prohibited; penalties
§ 102.20 . Sport killing of zoo or circus animals prohibited
§ 102.22 . Harboring or concealing an animal which has bitten or inflicted serious bodily injury on a human
§ 102.23 . Cockfighting
§ 102.24 . Participation in cockfighting
§ 102.26 . Unlawful restraint of a dog; definitions; penalties
§ 102.27. Unlawful sale of a live dog or cat at certain locations
§ 102.28. Transporting live feral swine prohibited; penalties
§ 102.29. Unlawful possession, transfer, or manufacture of animal fighting paraphernalia
Title 3. Agriculture and Forestry. Chapter 17. Cruelty to Animals. Part I. In General
§ 2361. Horses and mules which may not be sold
A. No person shall sell either at private sale or public auction, or offer or receive for sale any horse or mule which by reason of debility, disease, or lameness, or for any other cause could not be worked in the city in which it is offered for sale without violating the laws against cruelty to animals. This Section shall apply only in cities in this state having a population of ten thousand or more.
B. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than one hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months.
Credits
Amended by Acts 2018, No. 148, § 1.
§ 2362. Tying or tethering a dog or cat in extreme weather conditions; penalties
A. Except as otherwise provided by law, including R.S. 14:102.26, it shall be prohibited to tie or tether a dog or cat in a manner that exposes the dog or cat to extreme weather conditions in the following designated emergency areas:
(1) A designated emergency area during a flood or hurricane in which a disaster or emergency, as defined in R.S. 29:723, is declared by executive order or proclamation of the governor.
(2) A designated emergency area during a flood or hurricane in which a local disaster or emergency, as defined in R.S. 29:723, is declared by a local political subdivision of the state.
B. A local governing authority may establish a fine not to exceed seventy-five dollars which may be imposed on anyone who violates the provisions of this Section.
Credits
Amended by Acts 2018, No. 148, § 1.
§ 2363. Sale of dyed chicks, ducklings, goslings, or rabbits; requirements for maintenance; penalties
A. No person shall sell or offer for sale any dyed chick, duckling, gosling, or rabbit.
B. Stores, shops, vendors, and others offering chicks, ducklings, goslings, or rabbits for sale, or displaying chicks, ducklings, goslings, or rabbits to the public, shall provide and operate brooders or other devices that may be necessary to maintain the chicks, ducklings, or goslings in good health, and shall make adequate food and water available to such birds or rabbits at all times.
C. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than thirty days, or both. Each day on which a violation occurs shall constitute a separate offense.
Credits
Added by Acts 1985, No. 760, § 1.
§ 2364. Louisiana Animal Control Advisory Task Force
A. For purposes of this Section, the term “animal” shall mean a dog or cat.
B. The Louisiana Animal Control Advisory Task Force is hereby created within the office of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry under the direction of the state veterinarian for the purpose of assisting community programs in ensuring and promoting the proper treatment and well-being of animals. The task force shall consist of the following seven members to be appointed by the commissioner of agriculture:
(1) One member who is a small animal veterinarian.
(2) One member who is a director of a public animal control agency.
(3) Two individuals from the public at large.
(4) One representative from the Louisiana Animal Control Association.
(5) One representative from the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association.
(6) The state veterinarian.
C. The state veterinarian shall have the powers and duties necessary to carry out the purposes of this Section, including but not limited to the following:
(1) Support local and municipal animal control enforcement efforts.
(2) Support law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases.
(3) Make recommendations concerning the care and keeping of animals.
(4) Coordinate a statewide voluntary pet database that will assist animal owners in recovering lost animals.
(5) Formulate and implement proposals to deal with animal overpopulation.
(6) Promulgate rules and regulations that may be adopted by parish and local authorities for the proper care and treatment of animals.
(7) Inspect animal impoundment facilities for the purpose of making recommendations to the appropriate governing authority for improvements to those facilities and their operations wherever such facilities are operated by a government animal control agency or designated by municipal or parish governments to be used for the purpose of impoundment of animals. The governing authority shall provide the state veterinarian, or his designee, with reasonable access to the facility, and access to its records, and personnel within seven days of receipt of a written request.
(8) Submit written requests to the appropriate governing authority to have its animal control agency produce public records pertaining to animal intake, adoption, and euthanasia.
D. The task force shall act in an advisory capacity to the state veterinarian and report activities periodically.
E. (1) Members of the task force shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority.
(2) The task force shall meet at least once per calendar year. Additional special or regular meetings may be held upon the call of the chairman.
(3) Task force members shall serve without compensation.
F. The department shall submit an annual report to the House and Senate committees on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development no later than February first of each year regarding the status of the animal control program as provided for in this Section.
G. If the department does not receive the necessary funds, incurs a reduction in funds, or receives insufficient monies to fund or continue the task force, the task force shall become inactive.
Credits
Added by Acts 2001, No. 656, § 1. Amended by Acts 2004, No. 74, § 1; Acts 2004, No. 189, § 1; Acts 2005, No. 248, § 1, eff. June 29, 2005; Acts 2008, No. 796, § 1; Acts 2016, No. 381, § 1; Acts 2017, No. 422, § 1
§ 2365. Repealed by Acts 2017, No. 422, § 4
§ 2366. Louisiana Animal Shelter Registry
A. The legislature finds that the establishment and maintenance of a voluntary animal shelter registry will enable the Louisiana Animal Control Advisory Task Force to carry out its duties.
B. As used in this Section, the term “public animal shelter” means an animal shelter owned, operated, or designated for the purpose of impoundment of animals by any parish, municipality, or other subdivision of the state.
C. The state veterinarian shall establish and maintain a registry for animal shelters called the Louisiana Animal Shelter Registry.
D. On or before the first day of February of each calendar year, each parish governing authority may submit to the state veterinarian a list of all public animal shelters located within the parish's jurisdiction. The list shall include:
(1) The name, physical address, mailing address, contact number, and email address of the public animal shelter.
(2) The name, physical address, mailing address, contact number, and email address of the operator of the public animal shelter.
(3) The name and contact information for the parish or municipal animal control officer.
(4) The hours of operation.
E. On or before the first day of February of each calendar year, each public animal shelter may submit the following to the state veterinarian:
(1) The Basic Animal Data Matrix, submitted as “transparent” data, to the Shelter Animals Count database found at http://www.shelteranimalscount.org. Public animal shelters may submit the matrix electronically through this website.
(2) A brief narrative description, not to exceed two pages of twelve point font, of how the animal shelter is ensuring compliance with the provisions of R.S. 3:2461 et seq. and R.S. 3:2471 et seq.
Credits
Added by Acts 2016, No. 381, § 1. Amended by Acts 2017, No. 422, § 1.
Title 14. Criminal Law. Chapter 1. Criminal Code. Part VI. Offenses Affecting The Public Generally. Subpart B. Offenses Affecting The Public Sensibility
§ 102. Definitions; cruelty to animals
The following words, phrases, and terms as used in R.S. 14:102.1 through R.S. 14:102.4 shall be defined and construed as follows:
(1) "Cruel" means every act or failure to act whereby unjustifiable physical pain or suffering is caused or permitted.
(2) "Abandons" means to completely forsake and desert an animal previously under the custody or possession of a person without making reasonable arrangements for its proper care, sustenance, and shelter.
(3) "Proper food" means providing each animal with daily food of sufficient quality and quantity to prevent unnecessary or unjustifiable suffering by the animal.
(4) "Proper water" means providing each animal with daily water of sufficient quality and quantity to prevent unnecessary or unjustifiable suffering by the animal.
(5) "Proper shelter" means providing each animal with adequate shelter from the elements as required to prevent unnecessary or unjustifiable suffering by the animal.
(6) "Proper veterinary care" means providing each animal with veterinary care sufficient to prevent unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain or suffering by the animal.
(7) "Livestock" means cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses, mules, burros, asses, other livestock of all ages, farm-raised cervidae species, and farm-raised ratite species.
(8) "Public livestock exhibition" means any place, establishment, or facility commonly known as a "livestock market", "livestock auction market", "sales ring", "stockyard", or the like, operated for compensation or profit as a public market for livestock, consisting of pens, or other enclosures, and their appurtenances, in which livestock are received, held, sold, or kept for sale or shipment. "Public livestock exhibition" also means any public exhibition or sale of livestock or a livestock show.
(9) "Tampers" means any of the following:
(a) The injection, use, or administration of any drug or other internal or external administration of any product or material, whether gas, solid, or liquid, to livestock for the purpose of concealing, enhancing, transforming, or changing the true conformation, configuration, condition, natural color, or age of the livestock or making the livestock appear more sound than they actually are.
(b) The use or administration, for cosmetic purposes, of steroids, growth stimulants, or internal artificial filling, including paraffin, silicone injection, or any other substance.
(c) The use or administration of any drug or feed additive affecting the central nervous system of the livestock, unless administered or prescribed by a licensed veterinarian for the treatment of an illness or an injury.
(d) The use or administration of diuretics for cosmetic purposes.
(e) The surgical manipulation or removal of tissue so as to change, transform, or enhance the true conformation, configuration, or natural color of the livestock unless the procedure is considered an accepted livestock management practice.
CREDIT(S)
Amended by Acts 1982, No. 431, § 1; Acts 1997, No. 461, § 2.
§ 102.1. Cruelty to animals; simple and aggravated
A. (1) Any person who intentionally or with criminal negligence commits any of the following shall be guilty of simple cruelty to animals:
(a) Overdrives, overloads, drives when overloaded, or overworks a living animal.
(b) Torments, cruelly beats, or unjustifiably injures any living animal, whether belonging to himself or another.
(c) Having charge, custody, or possession of any animal, either as owner or otherwise, unjustifiably fails to provide it with proper food, proper drink, proper shelter, or proper veterinary care.
(d) Abandons any animal. A person shall not be considered to have abandoned an animal if he delivers to an animal control center an animal which he found running at large.
(e) Impounds or confines or causes to be impounded or confined in a pound or other place, a living animal and fails to supply it during such confinement with proper food, proper drink, and proper shelter.
(f) Carries, or causes to be carried, a living animal in or upon a vehicle or otherwise, in a cruel or inhumane manner.
(g) Unjustifiably administers any poisonous or noxious drug or substance to any domestic animal or unjustifiably exposes any such drug or substance, with intent that the same shall be taken or swallowed by any domestic animal.
(h) Injures any animal belonging to another person.
(i) Mistreats any living animal by any act or omission whereby unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain, suffering or death is caused to or permitted upon the animal.
(j) Causes or procures to be done by any person any act enumerated in this Subsection.
(2)(a) Whoever commits the crime of simple cruelty to animals shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. The court may also order the offender to pay for any expenses incurred for the housing of the animal and for medical treatment of the animal, pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure Article 883.2. In addition, the court may issue an order prohibiting the defendant from owning or keeping animals for a period of not more than one year.
(b) Whoever commits a second or subsequent offense of simple cruelty to animals shall be fined not less than five thousand dollars nor more than twenty-five thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than one year nor more than ten years, or both. In addition, the court may issue an order prohibiting the defendant from owning or keeping animals for a period of not more than five years.
(c) In addition to any other penalty imposed, a person who commits the crime of cruelty to animals shall be ordered to perform five eight-hour days of court-approved community service. The community service requirement shall not be suspended.
(d) In addition to any other penalty imposed, the court may order a psychological evaluation or anger management treatment for a first conviction of the crime of simple cruelty to animals. For a second or subsequent offense of the crime of simple cruelty to an animal, the court shall order a psychological evaluation or anger management treatment. Any costs associated with any evaluation or treatment ordered by the court shall be borne by the defendant.
(3) For purposes of this Subsection, if more than one animal is subject to an act of cruel treatment by an offender, each act shall constitute a separate offense.
B. (1) Any person who intentionally or with criminal negligence tortures, maims, or mutilates any living animal, whether belonging to himself or another, shall be guilty of aggravated cruelty to animals.
(2) Any person who tampers with livestock at a public livestock exhibition or at a private sale shall also be guilty of aggravated cruelty to animals.
(3) Any person who causes or procures to be done by any person any act designated in this Subsection shall also be guilty of aggravated cruelty to animals.
(4) Any person who intentionally or with criminal negligence mistreats any living animal whether belonging to himself or another by any act or omission which causes or permits unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain, suffering, or death to the animal shall also be guilty of aggravated cruelty to animals.
(5) In addition to any other penalty imposed for a violation of this Subsection, the offender shall be ordered to undergo a psychological evaluation and subsequently recommended psychological treatment and may be banned by court order from owning or keeping animals for a period of not more than ten years. Any costs associated with any evaluation or treatment ordered by the court shall be borne by the defendant.
(6) Whoever commits the crime of aggravated cruelty to animals shall be fined not less than five thousand dollars nor more than twenty-five thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than one year nor more than ten years, or both.
(7) For purposes of this Subsection, where more than one animal is tortured, maimed, mutilated, or maliciously killed or where more than one head of livestock is tampered with, each act comprises a separate offense.
C. This Section shall not apply to any of the following:
(1) The lawful hunting or trapping of wildlife as provided by law.
(2) Herding of domestic animals.
(3) Accepted veterinary practices.
(4) Activities carried on for scientific or medical research governed by accepted standards.
(5) Traditional rural Mardi Gras parades, processions, or runs involving chickens.
(6) Nothing in this Section shall prohibit the standard transportation and agricultural processing of agriculture products as defined in R.S. 3:3602(5) and (6).
D. Repealed by Acts 2007, No. 425, § 2, eff. Aug. 15, 2008.
Credits
Added by Acts 1982, No. 431, § 1. Amended by Acts 1983, 1st Ex.Sess., No. 6, § 1; Acts 1987, No. 336, § 1; Acts 1995, No. 1165, § 1; Acts 1995, No. 1246, § 1, eff. June 29, 1995; Acts 1997, No. 461, § 2; Acts 1997, No. 1212, § 1; Acts 2006, No. 228, § 1; Acts 2007, No. 425, § 1, eff. Aug. 15, 2008; Acts 2009, No. 106, § 1; Acts 2009, No. 179, § 1; Acts 2022, No. 629, § 1; Acts 2024, No. 551, § 1.
§ 102.2. Seizure and disposition of animals cruelly treated
A. When a person is charged with cruelty to animals, said person's animal may be seized by the arresting officer and held pursuant to this Section.
B. (1) The seizing officer shall notify the owner of the seized animal of the provisions of this Section by posting written notice at the location where the animal was seized or by leaving it with a person of suitable age and discretion residing at that location within twenty-four hours of the seizure.
(2) The seizing officer shall photograph the animal within fifteen days after posting of the notice of seizure and shall cause an affidavit to be prepared in order to document its condition in accordance with R.S. 15:436.2.
(3) The seizing officer shall appoint a licensed veterinarian or other suitable custodian to care for any such animal. The custodian shall retain custody of the animal in accordance with this Section.
(4) The seized animal shall be held by the custodian provided for in Paragraph (3) for a period of fifteen consecutive days, including weekends and holidays, after such notice of seizure is given. Thereafter, if a person who claims an interest in such animal has not posted bond in accordance with Subsection C, the animal may be humanely disposed of by sale, adoption, or euthanasia.
C. (1) A person claiming an interest in any animal seized pursuant to this Section may prevent the disposition of the animal as provided for in Subsection B of this Section by posting a bond with the court within fifteen days after receiving notice of such seizure. Such bond shall prevent the disposition of the animal for a period of thirty days commencing on the date of initial seizure.
(2)(a) The amount of the bond shall be determined by the department, agency, humane society, and the custodian of the animal as authorized by the court and shall be sufficient to secure payment for all reasonable costs incurred during the thirty-day period for the boarding and medical treatment of the animal after examination by a licensed veterinarian.
(b) The court shall order that the bond be given to the custodian of the animal to cover such costs.
(3) Such bond shall not prevent the department, agency, humane society, or other custodian of the animal from disposing of the animal in accordance with Subsection B of this Section at the end of the thirty-day period covered by the bond, unless the person claiming an interest posts an additional bond for such reasonable expenses for an additional thirty-day period. In addition, such bond shall not prevent disposition of the animal for humane purposes at any time, in accordance with Subsection E of this Section.
D. Upon a person's conviction of cruelty to animals, it shall be proper for the court, in its discretion, to order the forfeiture and final determination of the custody of any animal found to be cruelly treated in accordance with this Section and the forfeiture of the bond posted pursuant to Subsection C as part of the sentence. The court may, in its discretion, order the payment of any reasonable or additional costs incurred in the boarding or veterinary treatment of any seized animal prior to its disposition, whether or not a bond was posted by the defendant. In the event of the acquittal or final discharge without conviction of the accused, the court shall, on demand, direct the delivery of any animal held in custody to the owner thereof and order the return of any bond posted pursuant to Subsection C, less reasonable administrative costs.
E. Nothing in this Section shall prevent the euthanasia of any seized animal, at any time, whether or not any bond was posted, if a licensed veterinarian determines that the animal is not likely to survive and is suffering, as a result of any physical condition. In such instances, the court, in its discretion, may order the return of any bond posted, less reasonable costs, at the time of trial.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1982, No. 431, § 1. Amended by Acts 1997, No. 1212, § 1; Acts 2010, No. 916, § 1.
§ 102.3. Search warrant; animal cruelty offenses
If the complaint is made, by affidavit, to any magistrate authorized to issue search warrants in criminal cases, that the complainant has reason to believe that an animal has been or is being cruelly treated in violation of R.S. 14:102.1, in any building or place, such magistrate, if satisfied that there is reasonable cause for such belief, shall issue a search warrant to any law enforcement officer authorized by law to make arrests for such offenses, authorizing any such officer to make a search of said building or place, and to arrest any person found violating R.S. 14:102.1. Said warrant may also authorize said officer to seize any animal believed to be cruelly treated and to take custody thereof. This section shall not be construed as a limitation on the power of law enforcement officers to seize animals as evidence at the time of the arrest.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1982, No. 431, § 1.
§ 102.4. Confined animals; necessary food and water
When a living animal is impounded or confined, and continues without necessary food and water for more than twenty-four consecutive hours, any law enforcement officer may, as often as is necessary, enter any place in which the animal is impounded or confined and supply it with necessary food and water so long as it shall remain impounded or confined.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1982, No. 431, § 1.
§ 102.5. Dogfighting; training and possession of dogs for fighting
A. No person shall intentionally do any of the following:
(1) For amusement or gain, cause any dog to fight with another dog, or cause any dogs to injure each other.
(2) Permit any act in violation of Paragraph (1) to be done on any premises under his charge or control, or aid or abet any such act.
(3) Promote, stage, advertise, or be employed at a dogfighting exhibition.
(4) Sell a ticket of admission or receive money for the admission of any person to any place used, or about to be used, for any activity described in Paragraph (2).
(5) Own, manage, or operate any facility kept or used for the purpose of dogfighting.
(6) Knowingly attend as a spectator at any organized dogfighting event.
(7)(a) Own, possess, keep, or train a dog for purpose of dogfighting.
(b) The following activities shall be admissible as evidence of a violation of this Paragraph:
(i) Possession of any treadmill wheel, hot walker, cat mill, cat walker, jenni, or other paraphernalia, together with evidence that the paraphernalia is being used or intended for use in the unlawful training of a dog to fight with another dog, along with the possession of any such dog.
(ii) Tying, attaching, or fastening any live animal to a machine or power propelled device, for the purpose of causing the animal to be pursued by a dog, together with the possession of a dog.
(iii) Possession or ownership of a dog exhibiting injuries or alterations consistent with dogfighting, including but not limited to torn or missing ears, scars, lacerations, bite wounds, puncture wounds, bruising or other injuries, together with evidence that the dog has been used or is intended for use in dogfighting.
(iv) Possession or use of a bait dog to train another dog for dogfighting.
B. (1) “Bait dog” means a dog that is used as bait to train another dog to be more aggressive and accustomed to attacking other dogs for the purpose of dogfighting.
(2) “Dogfighting” means an organized event wherein there is a display of combat between two or more dogs in which the fighting, killing, maiming, or injuring of a dog is the significant feature, or main purpose, of the event.
C. Whoever violates any provision of Subsection A of this Section shall be fined not less than five thousand dollars nor more than twenty-five thousand dollars or be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than one year nor more than ten years, or both.
D. Nothing in this Section shall prohibit any of the following activities:
(1) The use of dogs for hunting.
(2) The use of dogs for management of livestock by the owner, his employees or agents, or any other person having lawful custody of livestock.
(3) The training of dogs or the possession or use of equipment in the training of dogs for any purpose not prohibited by law.
(4) The possessing or owning of dogs with ears cropped or otherwise surgically altered for cosmetic purposes.
(5) Owning or possessing a former bait dog for the purpose of providing it with rehabilitative care.
Credits
Added by Acts 1982, No. 432, § 1. Amended by Acts 1984, No. 661, § 1; Acts 1993, No. 1002, § 1; Acts 2001, No. 547, § 1; Acts 2001, No. 734, § 1, eff. June 25, 2001; Acts 2008, No. 14, § 1; Acts 2024, No. 359, § 1.
§ 102.6. Seizure and destruction or disposition of dogs and equipment used in dogfighting
A. (1) Any law enforcement officer making an arrest under R.S. 14:102.5 may lawfully take possession of all fighting dogs on the premises where the arrest is made or in the immediate possession or control of the person being arrested, whether or not the dogs are actually engaged in a fight at the time, and all paraphernalia, implements, equipment, or other property or things used or employed in violation of that Section.
(2) The legislature finds and declares that fighting dogs used or employed in violation of R.S. 14:102.5 are dangerous, vicious, and a threat to the health and safety of the public. Therefore, fighting dogs seized in accordance with this Section are declared to be contraband and, notwithstanding R.S. 14:102.1, the officer, an animal control officer, or a licensed veterinarian may cause them to be humanely euthanized as soon as possible by a licensed veterinarian or a qualified technician and shall not be civilly or criminally liable for so doing. Fighting dogs not destroyed immediately shall be disposed of in accordance with R.S. 14:102.2.
B. (1) The officer, after taking possession of any dogs other than those destroyed or disposed of pursuant to Subsection A and of the other paraphernalia, implements, equipment, or other property or things, shall file with the district court of the parish within which the alleged violation occurred an affidavit stating therein the name of the person charged, a description of the property so taken and the time and place of the taking thereof, together with the name of the person who claims to own such property, if known, and that the affiant has reason to believe and does believe, stating the ground of such belief, that the property so taken was used or employed in such violation.
(2) The seizing officer shall dispose of any dogs or other animals seized in the manner provided for in R.S. 14:102.2.
(3) He shall thereupon deliver the other property so taken to such court which shall, by order in writing, place such paraphernalia, implements, equipment, or other property in the custody of a suitable custodian, to be kept by such custodian until the conviction or final discharge of the accused, and shall send a copy of such order without delay to the district attorney of the parish. The custodian so named and designated in such order shall immediately thereupon assume the custody of such property and shall retain the same, subject to the order of the court before which the accused shall be required to appear for trial.
C. Any person claiming an interest in a seized animal may post a bond with the court in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 14:102.2(C) in order to prevent the disposition of such animal.
D. Upon conviction of the person so charged, all dogs so seized shall be adjudged by the court to be forfeited and the court shall order a humane disposition of the same in accordance with R.S. 14:102.2. The court may also in its discretion order the forfeiture of the bond posted, as well as payment of any reasonable or additional costs incurred in the boarding or veterinary treatment of any seized dog, as provided in R.S. 14:102.2. In the event of the acquittal or final discharge, without conviction, of the accused, the court shall, on demand, direct the delivery of the animals and other property so held in custody to the owner thereof and order the return of any bond posted pursuant to R.S. 14:102.2(C), less reasonable administrative costs.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1982, No. 432, § 1. Amended by Acts 1987, No. 590, § 1; Acts 1993, No. 1002, § 1; Acts 1997, No. 1212, § 1; Acts 2010, No. 369, § 1.
§ 102.7. Search warrant for dogfighting offenses
If complaint is made, by affidavit, to any magistrate authorized to issue search warrants in criminal cases, that the complainant has reason to believe that R.S. 14:102.5 has been violated within the past forty-eight hours, is being, or will be violated in any building or place, such magistrate, if satisfied that there is reasonable cause for such belief, shall issue a search warrant authorizing any law enforcement officer competent by law to make arrests for such offenses to make a search of said building or place, and to arrest any person found violating R.S. 14:102.5. This Section shall not be construed as a limitation on the power of law enforcement officers to seize animals or evidence at the time of arrest.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1982, No. 432, § 1.
§ 102.8. Injuring or killing of a police animal
A. Injuring or killing of a police animal is the intentional infliction of great bodily harm, permanent disability, or death upon a police animal.
B. As used in this Section:
(1) "Police animal" means:
(a) Any dog which is owned or the service of which is used by any state or local law enforcement agency for the principal purpose of aiding in the detection of criminal activity, enforcement of laws, or apprehension of offenders.
(b) Any dog which is owned or the service of which is used by any public safety agency and which is trained in accordance with the standards of a national or regional search and rescue association to respond to instructions from its handler in the search for possibly deceased individuals and in the search and rescue of lost or missing individuals and which dog, together with its handler, is prepared to render search and rescue services at the request of a public safety agency.
(c) Any horse which is used by a state or local law enforcement officer in the course of his official duty.
(2) "Public safety agency" means any agency of the state or political subdivision of the state which provides or has authority to provide law enforcement, fire protection, emergency medical services, emergency preparedness services, or any other type of emergency services.
C. It shall be an affirmative defense to a prosecution under this Section when the injuring or killing of a police animal is committed with the reasonable belief by one not involved in or being apprehended for the commission of any offense or by one taken into custody that:
(1) He is in imminent danger of losing his life or receiving great bodily harm and that the injuring or killing is necessary to save himself from that danger.
(2) Another person not involved in or being apprehended for the commission of any offense is in imminent danger of losing his life or receiving great bodily harm and that the injury or killing is necessary to save that person from that danger.
(3) His animal or other property not involved in the commission of any offense or in the apprehension of any person for an offense is in imminent danger of being destroyed or receiving grave injury or damage that may result in its destruction.
D. (1) Whoever commits the crime of injuring or killing of a police animal shall be fined not less than five thousand dollars nor more than ten thousand dollars, or imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than one year nor more than three years, or both.
(2) Upon a second or subsequent conviction, regardless of whether the second or subsequent offense occurred before or after the first conviction, the offender shall be fined not less than five thousand dollars and not more than ten thousand dollars, or imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than five years nor more than seven years, or both.
E. In addition to the foregoing penalties, a person convicted under this Section shall be ordered to make full restitution to the public safety agency suffering a financial loss from the injury or killing of a police animal. If a person ordered to make restitution pursuant to this Section is found to be indigent and therefore unable to make restitution in full at the time of conviction, the court shall order a periodic payment plan consistent with the person's financial ability.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1984, No. 534, § 1. Amended by Acts 1986, No. 997, § 1, eff. July 16, 1986; Acts 1992, No. 921, § 1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex.Sess., No. 82, § 1; Acts 1995, No. 208, § 1; Acts 1997, No. 130, § 1; Acts 2001, No. 213, § 1; Acts 2008, No. 158, § 1.
§ 102.9. Interference with animal research; research laboratory or farm
A. Interference with animal research is any of the following:
(1) The unauthorized entry of any research laboratory or research farm with the intent of releasing or causing the release of any animal housed or kept within such research facility.
(2) The intentional or criminally negligent damaging of any research laboratory or research farm.
(3) The intentional or criminally negligent unauthorized release of any animal housed or kept within any research laboratory or research farm.
B. Whoever commits the crime of interference with animal research shall, upon conviction, be fined not less than one thousand nor more than five thousand dollars and may be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than one year.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1989, No. 784, § 1.
§ 102.10. Bear wrestling; penalty
A. Any person who intentionally commits any of the following shall be guilty of bear wrestling:
(1) Promotes, engages in, or is employed by anyone who conducts a bear wrestling match.
(2) Receives money for the admission of another person to a place kept for bear wrestling matches.
(3) Sells, purchases, possesses, or trains a bear for a bear wrestling match.
B. For the purposes of this Section, a "bear wrestling match" means a match or contest between one or more persons and a bear for the purpose of fighting or engaging in a physical altercation.
C. Whoever commits the crime of bear wrestling shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 1992, No. 740, § 1.
As used in this Section and R.S. 14:102.13 through 102.18, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) “Animal control agency” means the parish or local animal control agency. If the municipality or parish does not have an animal control agency, it means whatever entity performs animal control functions.
(2) “Impounded” means taken into the custody of the animal control agency or provider of animal control services to the municipality or parish where the dangerous or vicious dog is found.
(3) “Secure enclosure” means a fence or structure suitable to prevent the entry of young children, and which is suitable to confine a dangerous dog in conjunction with other measures which may be taken by the owner of the dog. The enclosure shall be designed in order to prevent the animal from escaping.
(4) Repealed by Acts 2019, No. 2, § 3.
Credits
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1. Amended by Acts 2003, No. 563, § 1.
§ 102.13. Hearing to determine if dog is dangerous or vicious
A. The district attorney, the sheriff, an animal control officer, or other designated representative, in the name of and on behalf of the parish and without the payment of any costs, shall be authorized to file a petition in the district court having jurisdiction requesting a hearing for the purpose of determining whether or not a dog should be declared dangerous as defined in R.S. 14:102.14(A) or vicious as defined in R.S. 14:102.15(A).
B. Upon the filing of the petition, the district judge shall immediately issue a rule on the owner of the dog to show cause why the dog should not be declared a dangerous or vicious dog. This rule shall, at the time of its issuance, be fixed for hearing not later than five days, including Sundays, half-holidays and holidays, from the date of its issuance, and shall be heard by preference over all other matters and cases fixed for the same day and shall be heard continuously day after day until submitted for adjudication.
C. Upon the showing made by the parties on the trial of the rule to show cause, the court shall determine whether the dog is a dangerous dog or a vicious dog and may make other orders authorized by this Section.
D. In every case where the dog is established to be a dangerous dog, the court shall enter an order declaring the dog to be a dangerous dog and shall direct the owner of the dog to comply with conditions established for the restraint and confinement of the dog as provided by law.
E. In every case where the dog is established to be a vicious dog, the court shall enter an order declaring the dog to be a vicious dog and shall direct that the vicious dog be humanely euthanized.
F. Any person who fails to restrain and confine a dangerous dog as ordered by the court shall be guilty of contempt and shall be fined not less than one hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars.
G. The pleading and practice in all cases under this Section shall be in accordance with the Code of Civil Procedure and the laws and rules of court governing practice before the district courts of this state.
H. The owner of the dog may appeal to the court of competent jurisdiction an order of the district court determining the dog to be dangerous or vicious. Such appeal shall be perfected within five calendar days from the rendition of the order and shall be made returnable to the appropriate appellate court in not more than fifteen calendar days from the rendition of the order. The applicant for the determination may appeal to the court of competent jurisdiction for an order reversing the order of the district court.
I. No dog shall be declared dangerous or vicious if at the hearing authorized by this Section evidence presented is sufficient to establish any of the following:
(1) Any injury or damage is sustained by a person who, at the time the injury or damage was sustained, was committing a crime upon the property of the owner of the dog.
(2) Any injury or damage is sustained by a person who, at the time the injury or damage was sustained, was teasing, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog.
(3) Any injury or damage is sustained by a domestic animal which, at the time the injury or damage was sustained, was teasing, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog.
(4) If the dog was protecting or defending a person within the immediate vicinity of the dog from an unjustified attack or assault.
(5) If the injury or damage to a domestic animal was sustained while the dog was working as a hunting dog, herding dog, or predator control dog on the property of, or under the control of, its owner, and the damage or injury was to a species or type of domestic animal appropriate to the work of the dog.
J. The owner of a dog determined to be a vicious dog may be prohibited by the court from owning, possessing, controlling, or having custody of any dog for a period of up to three years, when it is found, after proceedings conducted pursuant to this Section, that ownership or possession of a dog by that person would create a significant threat to the health, safety, or welfare of the public.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1.
§ 102.14. Unlawful ownership of dangerous dog
A. For the purposes of this Section "dangerous dog" means:
(1) Any dog which when unprovoked, on two separate occasions within the prior thirty-six-month period, engages in any behavior that requires a defensive action by any person to prevent bodily injury when the person and the dog are off the property of the owner of the dog; or
(2) Any dog which, when unprovoked, bites a person causing an injury; or
(3) Any dog which, when unprovoked, on two separate occasions within the prior thirty-six-month period, has killed, seriously bitten, inflicted injury, or otherwise caused injury to a domestic animal off the property of the owner of the dog.
B. It is unlawful for any person to own a dangerous dog without properly restraining or confining the dog.
C. A dangerous dog, while on the owner's property, shall, at all times, be kept indoors, or in a secure enclosure. A dangerous dog may be off the owner's property only if it is restrained by a leash which prevents its escape or access to other persons.
D. The owner of a dog determined by the court to be dangerous shall post signs around the secure enclosure no more than thirty feet apart and at each normal point of ingress and egress. The signs shall bear the words "Beware of Dog", or "Dangerous Dog" in letters at least three and one-half inches high and shall be so placed as to be readily visible to any person approaching the secure enclosure.
E. If the dog in question dies, or is sold, transferred, or permanently removed from the municipality or parish where the owner resides, the owner of a dangerous dog shall notify the animal control agency of the changed condition and new location of the dog in writing within two days.
F. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than three hundred dollars.
G. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to:
(1) Any dog which is owned, or the service of which is employed, by any state or local law enforcement agency for the principal purpose of aiding in the detection of criminal activity, enforcement of laws, or apprehension of offenders.
(2) Any dog trained in accordance with the standards of a national or regional search and rescue association to respond to instructions from its handler in the search and rescue of lost or missing individuals and which dog, together with its handler, is prepared to render search and rescue services at the request of law enforcement.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1.
§ 102.15. Unlawful ownership of a vicious dog
A. For the purposes of this Section "vicious dog" means any dog which, when unprovoked, in an aggressive manner, inflicts serious bodily injury on or kills a human being and was previously determined to be a dangerous dog.
B. It is unlawful for any person to own a vicious dog.
C. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
D. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to:
(1) Any dog which is owned, or the service of which is employed, by any state or local law enforcement agency for the principal purpose of aiding in the detection of criminal activity, enforcement of laws, or apprehension of offenders.
(2) Any dog trained in accordance with the standards of a national or regional search and rescue association to respond to instructions from its handler in the search and rescue of lost or missing individuals and which dog, together with its handler, is prepared to render search and rescue services at the request of law enforcement.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1.
§ 102.16. Seizure and destruction or disposition of dangerous or vicious dogs
A. (1) Any law enforcement officer making an arrest under R.S. 14:102.14 or R.S. 14:102.15 may lawfully take possession of all dogs on the premises where the arrest is made or in the immediate possession or control of the person being arrested.
(2) The legislature finds and declares that dangerous or vicious dogs are a threat to the health and safety of the public. Dogs seized in accordance with this Section are declared to be contraband, and the officer may cause them to be impounded pending the hearing held pursuant to R.S. 14:102.13.
B. A dog determined to be a vicious dog by the court shall be humanely euthanized by the animal control agency, a licensed veterinarian, or a qualified technician.
C. A dog determined by the court to be a dangerous dog may be humanely euthanized if it is determined that the dog poses an immediate threat to public health and safety.
D. The owner of the dog shall be liable to the municipality or parish where the dog is impounded for the costs and expenses of keeping the dog if the dog is later adjudicated dangerous or vicious.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1.
§ 102.17. Registration of dangerous dogs; fees
A. All dangerous dogs shall be properly licensed and vaccinated. The licensing authority shall include the dangerous designation in the registration records of the dog, either after the owner of the dog has agreed to the designation or the court has determined the designation applies to the dog.
B. The municipality or parish may charge a dangerous dog fee in addition to the regular licensing fee to provide for the increased costs of maintaining the records of the dog.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2001, No. 823, § 1.
§ 102.18. Seizure and disposition of dogs which cause death or inflict bodily injury
A. Any law enforcement officer or animal control officer may seize any dog which when unprovoked, in an aggressive manner, causes the death of or inflicts bodily injury on a human being. Any dog seized pursuant to the provisions of this Section may be impounded pending the outcome of the hearing held in accordance with this Section.
B. The district attorney, the sheriff, an animal control officer, or other designated representative, in the name of and on behalf of the parish, and without the payment of any costs, shall be authorized to file a petition in the district court having jurisdiction requesting a hearing for the purpose of determining whether or not a dog which, when unprovoked, in an aggressive manner, causes the death of or inflicts bodily injury on a human being, shall be euthanized.
C. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the procedure provided in R.S. 14:102.13.
D. A dog determined by the court to have, when unprovoked, in an aggressive manner, caused the death of or inflicted bodily injury on a human being may be humanely euthanized by the animal control agency, a licensed veterinarian, or a qualified technician.
E. The owner of the dog shall be liable to the municipality or parish where the dog is impounded for the costs and expenses of keeping the dog if the dog is later adjudicated to have, when unprovoked, in an aggressive manner, caused the death or inflicted bodily injury on a human being.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2003, No. 563, § 1.
§ 102.19. Hog and canine fighting prohibited; penalties
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to organize or conduct any commercial or private event, wherein there is a display of combat or fighting among one or more domestic or feral canines and feral or domestic hogs and in which it is intended or reasonably foreseeable that the canines or hogs would be injured, maimed, mutilated, or killed.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person to intentionally do any of the following for the purpose of organizing, conducting, or financially or materially supporting any event as provided in Subsection A of this Section:
(1) Finance, commercially advertise, sell admission tickets, or employ persons.
(2) Own, manage, or operate any facility or property.
(3) Supply, breed, train, or keep canines or hogs.
(4) Knowingly purchase tickets of admission.
C. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to any competitive event in which canines, which are trained for hunting or herding activities, are released in an open area or an enclosed area to locate and corner hogs, and in which competitive points are deducted if a hog is caught and held, unless by such actions it is reasonably foreseeable that the canines or hogs would be injured, maimed, mutilated, or killed.
D. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to the lawful hunting of hogs with canines or the use of canines for the management, farming, or herding of hogs which are livestock or the private training of canines for the purposes enumerated in this Subsection provided that such training is conducted in the field and is not in violation of the provisions of Subsection A of this Section.
E. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to "Uncle Earl's Hog Dog Trials," as defined in R.S. 49:170.10.
F. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
G. For the purposes of this Section:
(1) "Hog" shall include a pig, swine, or boar.
(2) "Person" means an individual, corporation, partnership, trust, firm, association or other legal entity.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2004, No. 111, § 1.
§ 102.20. Sport killing of zoo or circus animals prohibited
A. No person shall kill for sport an animal that is presently or was formerly a part of a zoo or circus.
B. No zoo or circus shall provide, sell, or donate any animal for use in any business or activity wherein the animal may be intentionally killed for sport.
C. No person shall knowingly transfer or conspire to transfer any animal from a zoo or circus to any business, person, or activity wherein the animal may be intentionally killed for sport.
D. No business or person wherein an animal may be intentionally killed for sport shall purchase, accept as a donation, or receive any animal that was formerly a part of a zoo or circus.
E. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section or rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2004, No. 891, § 1.
§ 102.22. Harboring or concealing an animal which has bitten or inflicted serious bodily injury on a human
A. Harboring or concealing an animal which has bitten or inflicted serious bodily injury on a human is committed when a person knows or has reason to know that an animal has bitten or inflicted serious bodily injury on a human and the person intentionally harbors or conceals the animal from any law enforcement or animal control agency investigator or agent.
B. For the purposes of this Section:
(1) “Animal control agency” means the parish or local animal control agency. If the municipality or parish does not have an animal control agency, it means the entity designated to perform animal control functions.
(2) Repealed by Acts 2019, No. 2, § 3.
C. Whoever commits the crime of harboring or concealing an animal which has bitten or inflicted serious bodily injury on a human shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned with or without hard labor, for not more than two years, or both.
D. (1) Any health care provider, as provided in R.S. 40:1231.1, who examines or treats any person who has been bitten by an animal or upon whom an animal has inflicted serious bodily injury shall report such bite or injury to the law enforcement or animal control agency for the location where the bite or injury occurred. Such report shall be made immediately, if possible, and in any event shall be made within twenty-four hours.
(2) The report shall include as much of the following information as is available:
(a) The patient's name, date of birth, sex, and current home and work addresses.
(b) The nature of the bite or injury that is the subject of the report.
(c) Any information about the location of the biting animal and the name and address of any known owner.
(d) The name and address of the health care provider.
Credits
Added by Acts 2006, No. 788, § 1.
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
(1) Organize or conduct any commercial or private cockfight wherein there is a display of combat or fighting among one or more domestic or feral chickens and in which it is intended or reasonably foreseeable that the chickens would be injured, maimed, mutilated, or killed; or
(2) Possess, train, purchase, or sell any chicken with the intent that the chicken shall be engaged in an unlawful commercial or private cockfight as prohibited in Paragraph (1) of this Subsection.
B. As used in this Section, the following words and phrases have the following meanings ascribed to them:
(1) “Chicken” means any game fowl or rooster whether domestic or feral normally used in a cockfight.
(2) “Cockfight” means a contest wherein chickens are set against one another with the intention that they engage in combat.
C. Possessing, manufacturing, buying, selling, or trading of paraphernalia such as spurs, gaffs, knives, leather training spur covers, and other items or substances normally used in cockfighting with the intent that they shall be used in a cockfight together with evidence that the paraphernalia is being used or intended for use in the unlawful training of a chicken to fight with another chicken, shall be admissible as evidence of a violation of this Section. Whoever violates the provisions of this Subsection, upon conviction shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. However, the provisions of this Section shall not be construed to prohibit the possessing, buying, selling, or trading of any spurs, gaffs, knives, leather training spur covers, or any other items normally used in cockfighting which are at least five years old and have historical value.
D. (1) Whoever violates the provisions of this Section, on conviction of a first offense, shall be fined not less than seven hundred fifty dollars, nor more than two thousand dollars, or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than six months nor more than one year, or both. In addition to any other penalty imposed, on a conviction of a first offense, the offender shall be ordered to perform fifteen eight-hour days of court-approved community service. The community service requirement shall not be suspended.
(2) On a conviction of a second offense, the offender shall be fined not less than one thousand dollars, nor more than two thousand dollars, and shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than one year nor more than three years. At least six months of the sentence imposed shall be served without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.
E. For the purposes of this Section, when more than one chicken is subject to an act that would constitute cockfighting, each chicken involved shall constitute a separate offense.
F. The provisions of this Section shall not be construed to prohibit the raising of any chicken, rooster, or gamefowl for the purposes of personal enjoyment, exhibition, or agricultural pursuits as long as the purpose of such pursuits are legal.
Credits
Added by Acts 2007, No. 425, § 1, eff. Aug. 15, 2008. Amended by Acts 2014, No. 395, § 1.
§ 102.24. Participation in cockfighting
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to attend a cockfight, or to bet on a cockfight, or to pay admission at any location to view or bet on a cockfight.
B. As used in this Section, the following words and phrases have the following meaning ascribed to them:
(1) “Chicken” means any bird which is of the species Gallus gallus, whether domestic or feral.
(2) “Cockfight” means a contest wherein chickens are set against one another with the intention that they engage in combat.
C. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2010, No. 114, § 1.
§ 102.26. Unlawful restraint of a dog; definitions; penalties
A. As used in this Section:
(1) “Collar” means any collar constructed of nylon, leather, or similar material, specifically designed to be used for a dog.
(2) “Owner” means a person who owns or has custody or control of a dog.
(3) “Properly fitted” means, with respect to a collar, a collar that measures the circumference of a dog's neck plus at least one inch.
(4) “Restraint” means a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object or trolley system.
B. It shall be unlawful to tie, tether, or restrain any animal in a manner that is inhumane, cruel, or detrimental to its welfare.
C. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to any of the following:
(1) Accepted veterinary practices.
(2) Activities carried on for scientific or medical research governed by accepted standards.
(3) A dog restrained to a running line, pulley, or trolley system and is not restrained to the running line, pulley, or trolley system by means of a pinch-type, prong-type, choke-type, or improperly fitted collar.
(4) A dog restrained in compliance with the requirements of a camping or recreational area as defined by a federal, state, or local authority or jurisdiction.
(5) A dog restrained while the owner is engaged in, or actively training for, an activity that is conducted pursuant to a valid license issued by this state if the activity for which the license is issued is associated with the use or presence of a dog.
(6) A dog restrained while the owner is engaged in conduct directly related to the business of shepherding or herding cattle or livestock.
(7) A dog restrained while the owner is engaged in conduct directly related to the business of cultivating agricultural products if the restraint is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog.
(8) A dog being restrained and walked with a hand-held leash regardless of the type of collar being used.
D. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than three hundred dollars.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2010, No. 977, § 1.
§ 102.27. Unlawful sale of a live dog or cat at certain locations
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to offer for sale or sell any dog or cat on any highway, right-of-way, flea market, public park, public playground, public swimming pool, any other public recreational area, or adjacent property to such locations regardless of whether or not access to those locations is authorized, or on any commercial or retail parking lot unless permission is granted by the owner of the parking lot.
B. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to:
(1) Bona fide humane societies, animal welfare groups, animal control agencies, or nonprofit organizations sponsoring animal adoption events.
(2) The offering of dogs or cats for sale at a private residence.
(3) The offering of dogs or cats for sale by a paid entrant to a competitive cat show or dog show, provided that the sale occurs on the premises and within the confines of the show.
(4) Any retail pet store or licensed breeder.
(5) Any raffle or drawing for a dog or cat which is a fundraising event for a waterfowl, wetland, or natural resources conservation organization.
C. (1) Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than two hundred fifty dollars for a first offense.
(2) Whoever violates the provisions of this Section for a second or subsequent offense shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars per violation.
D. For the purposes of this Section:
(1) “Highway” means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way or place of whatever nature publicly maintained and open to the use of the public for the purpose of vehicular travel, including bridges, causeways, tunnels, and ferries; synonymous with the word “street”.
(2) “Right-of-way” means the privilege of the immediate use of the highway.
Credits
Added by Acts 2012, No. 700, § 1.
§ 102.28. Transporting live feral swine prohibited; penalties
A. It shall be unlawful to transport live feral swine by any person not in possession of proof of registration as a feral swine authorized transporter with the Louisiana Board of Animal Health within the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
B. For the purposes of this Section, “feral swine” shall mean any hog, pig, or swine species, Sus scrofa, including but not limited to Russian and European wild boar and their hybrids that are running at large, free roaming, or wild upon public or private lands in this state, and shall also include any hog, pig, or swine species that has lived any part of its life running at large, free roaming, or wild. The term feral swine shall also include any feral phenotype swine, whether or not running at large, free roaming, or wild.
C. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than nine hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
D. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to “Uncle Earl's Hog Dog Trials” as defined in R.S. 49:170.10.
Credits
Added by Acts 2018, No. 681, § 1.
§ 102.29. Unlawful possession, transfer, or manufacture of animal fighting paraphernalia
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to possess, purchase, sell, transfer, or manufacture animal fighting paraphernalia with the intent to engage in, promote, or facilitate animal fighting in violation of R.S. 14:102.1, 102.5, or 102.23, or any other provision of law.
B. For purposes of this Section, “animal fighting paraphernalia” means equipment, products, implements, or materials of any kind that are used, intended for use, or designed for use in the training, preparation, conditioning, or furtherance of animal fighting, and includes but is not limited to the following:
(1) Breaking sticks.
(2) Cat mills.
(3) Treadmills.
(4) Fighting pits.
(5) Spring poles.
(6) Unprescribed veterinary medicine.
(7) Veterinary treatment supplies.
(8)(a) Spurs, gaffs, knives, leather training spur covers, slashers, heels, or any other sharp implement designed to be attached in place of the natural spur of a cock or game fowl.
(b) This Paragraph shall not be construed to prohibit the possessing, buying, selling, or trading of any spurs, gaffs, knives, leather training spur covers, or any other items normally used in cockfighting that are at least five years old and have historical value.
C. Nothing in this Section shall prohibit the training of animals or the use of equipment in the training of animals for any purpose not prohibited by law.
D. Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both.
Credits
Added by Acts 2021, No. 100, § 1, eff. June 4, 2021.